Posted: December 4, 2012
A tummy tuck is major surgery and as a result, you should expect a slightly longer recovery time than is required with less invasive plastic surgery procedures. Tummy tuck recovery time varies from patient to patient based on a variety of factors including your overall health, the type of tummy tuck performed, and your compliance with Dr. Corey’s post-operative instructions. However, most people find that their tummy tuck recovery takes about a month.
Dr. Corey will monitor your progress closely during the first few weeks of the healing process, and you will return to our Scottsdale office for periodic checkups. It is important to follow Dr. Corey’s instructions carefully to facilitate proper healing and ensure the best possible results.
You will be given a pain pump to manage any discomfort you may experience during the first four to five days of recovery. During this time, you may find getting in and out of bed to be slightly uncomfortable. But by the end of the first week, you should be feeling much better and moving around with ease.
Swelling is common after a tummy tuck, and it should subside gradually over the first few weeks of your recovery. However, you may experience some residual swelling for as long as six months. The following tips will help you reduce swelling as quickly as possible:
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
- Maintain a healthy, low sodium diet
- Gently massage the abdominal region to facilitate fluid circulation
- Get plenty of rest
- Use cold compresses as directed
You will be able to gradually resume normal activity over the first few weeks of recovery, and you should be able to return to work within 10-14 days. However, strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six weeks.
Please contact Dr. John Corey today to schedule your tummy tuck consultation. Dr. Cory serves patients in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona.